How close may a worker be to a hoisted load?

OSHA’s General Industry standards address this issue in 29 CFR 1910.179(n)(3)(vi) and 29 CFR 1910.184(c)(9). Both standards prohibit employees from working or walking underneath a suspended or hoisted load.

Aside from this restriction, OSHA does not specify a minimum safe distance for working near a hoisting operation. Determining safe proximity is the responsibility of the employer through a workplace hazard assessment.

Safe working distance depends on the specific hoisting operation and may include considerations such as the type and weight of the load, potential swing radius, direction of travel, and the experience and competency of the hoist operator. Employers must establish and enforce procedures to protect employees from these identified risks.